At 4:00 a.m., the alarms buzzed through their hotel rooms. John B. Routledge, Christian Hughes, Clay Jensen, Jordan Baker, Sarah Cameron, Dani Ardor, Betty Cooper, Jessica Davis, JJ Maybank, Pope Heyward, Kiara Carrera, and Cleo slowly roused from sleep, rubbing their eyes and questioning why they had agreed to start their next adventure at such an ungodly hour.
"JJ's idea again, I'm sure," Clay mumbled while grabbing his suitcase. "He probably thinks we're gladiators now."
John B., already dressed but still half-asleep, chuckled. "He's probably got us fighting lions by noon."
Everyone packed their luggage, yawning and groaning as they made their way down to the hotel lobby to meet up with their tour guides-turned-friends: Emily Cooper, Mindy Chen, and Camille. They were just as tired but holding up better thanks to Emily's impressive stash of espresso shots.
"Good morning, fellow zombies!" JJ greeted everyone, wide awake and annoyingly chipper for the early hour. "It's going to be worth it when we get to Nîmes!"
Kiara rolled her eyes. "You're lucky we love you, JJ."
The group managed to haul themselves onto the train, where most of them immediately passed out during the ride from Paris to Nîmes. JJ, of course, spent the entire trip bouncing in his seat, unable to contain his excitement.
When they arrived in Nîmes, any lingering grumbles vanished. The golden sunlight bathed the city in warmth, and the streets had that perfect blend of ancient history and chic modern charm.
"This place looks straight out of a history book," Betty remarked, gazing at the architecture around them.
Camille beamed. "Wait until you see what we have lined up today."
They checked into the Hôtel des Tuileries, and the group was in awe once again. Each hotel room boasted a stunning view of the city, ancient Roman ruins visible in the distance. Christian stood by the window in his and John B.'s room, grinning.
"Looks like we've got our perfect view again," Christian said, pulling John B. close to him for a kiss.
John B. laughed softly. "Guess we can't escape romantic views even if we try."
Once settled, they began their tour of Nîmes. Their first stop was the Maison Carrée, an incredibly well-preserved Roman temple that had everyone's jaws dropping.
"This is insane," Clay whispered, standing in front of the ancient columns.
Emily, Camille, and Mindy provided the group with fascinating insights about the rich history behind the temple. Christian leaned in closer as Camille explained, "The Maison Carrée is dedicated to the grandsons of Emperor Augustus. It's one of the most well-preserved Roman temples in the world."
Betty, ever the history buff, asked, "So what was the main purpose of this temple? Did they have gladiator games here or something?"
"No, no games," Camille replied with a laugh. "This was a sacred space, used for religious purposes. But its architecture is what really stands out—it has inspired so many buildings around the world."
Then, in true JJ fashion, he decided to lighten the mood. "So... do you think the Romans ever had frat parties here? Just imagine, toga parties with actual togas!"
Everyone burst out laughing, but Camille, keeping her cool, said, "Not exactly, but who knows? Maybe you could have started a new tradition back then."
Next, they moved on to the Amphitheatre of Nîmes, a stunning Roman structure that rivaled even the Colosseum in Rome. The group had the chance to walk through the ancient corridors and imagine what life was like for the gladiators who once fought there.
JJ, of course, couldn't help but pretend he was a gladiator. "I am JJ the Great! Slayer of lions and conqueror of... well, everything!" He puffed his chest out, mimicking a sword fight with an imaginary opponent.
Kiara smirked. "More like JJ the Great Drama Queen."
Mindy explained how the arena was used for all sorts of entertainment, from gladiator games to public spectacles. "It could seat around 24,000 people," she added.
Jordan, clearly impressed, asked, "What was the most important event that ever took place here?"
Emily chimed in, "Apart from the gladiator games, it's hosted bullfights in modern times. They even still use it for concerts."
JJ, ever curious (and inappropriate), asked, "So, do you think they ever had, like, an ancient Roman mosh pit here?"
Everyone groaned but laughed, and Mindy, not missing a beat, replied, "If they did, I'd bet you'd be the first one thrown in."
After their exploration of the amphitheater, the group wandered through the Nîmes City Centre. The chic boutiques and food stalls gave them a taste of modern life in this ancient city. They spent time browsing shops, trying local snacks, and buying souvenirs. Pope and Cleo debated over the best olive oil, while Jessica and Betty found themselves trying on some stylish hats at a local boutique.
JJ, meanwhile, was hanging back with Emily, Camille, and Mindy, asking the most ridiculous question of the day. "Do you think the Romans invented croissants?"
Emily, laughing, said, "Not quite, JJ. But I'm sure if they had, they would've been pretty popular!"
After a long day of walking, learning, and goofing off, the group headed back to the hotel to relax for a bit before their evening activities. They all sprawled out in their rooms, exhausted but happy.
"You know," Clay said as he collapsed onto his bed next to Jordan, "I never thought I'd be exploring Roman ruins in France with a group like this. It's crazy, but I love it."
Jordan nodded. "Same here, man. This is definitely one of those once-in-a-lifetime trips."
Over in John B. and Christian's room, they were gazing out at the city once again. "I think this view is my favorite part of the trip so far," Christian said softly, his arm around John B.
John B. smiled. "I don't know. Exploring ancient Roman ruins with you comes pretty close."
They kissed again, happy to share another unforgettable moment in a city full of surprises.
After their short rest, the group planned their next moves for the evening. JJ, of course, was already thinking ahead. "So, guys, dinner tonight? I've heard the pizza here is incredible."
"Pizza? After all the Roman history we've soaked up?" Sarah teased.
"Hey, the Romans loved pizza too! Well, probably. At least I do," JJ replied with a wink.
And so, with their bellies ready for more adventure, they headed out for an evening filled with laughter, good food, and the promise of even more memories to come.
